Safety regulations
Basic canoe trip safety procedures.
Kayaking is one of the most enjoyable types of leisure activity and a great idea for a weekend holiday in the great outdoors. Kayaking is very safe provided that you are familiar with the basic safety procedures for canoe trips. Use your common sense. Basic procedures are:
One person only is responsible for leading the canoe trip
The trip is to be adjusted to the skill level of participants
Never forget about mutual assurance during the canoe trip
Remember that your canoe or kayak can capsize
Canoe in PFD or in a lifejacket if you can’t swim
Do not canoe single-handed, you never know where help is required
Be sober, never mix alcohol and water sports
Never canoe at night
Avoid canoeing during flood alerts
Check weather reports before embarking on the canoe trip
Get to know the route in detail: all obstacles, gorges, fallen trees etc. Skim through guidebooks, check on the internet and if you still have any doubts, chat on pl.rec.kajaki
On entering a lake look out for yachts, motorboats, water scooters etc.– keep proper distance and bear in mind that motorboats and water scooters generate waves – give them priority
Remember to match your equipment to the canoe trip
Remember!!! A canoe or kayak must be unsinkable!!!
Adjust your clothing to the weather conditions
Remember to take all necessary emergency equipment when organising a canoeing trip: PFDs, hauling lines etc.
Never forget about your first aid kit!!!
At least one person should be able to administer first aid!!
The speed you canoe at should be adjusted to the weakest canoeists – listen to what they have to say
Water is one of the four elements!! It is hazardous and dangerous!!
Every single regulation mentioned above increases safety during your canoeing trip